Vehicle-to-load (V2L)

Vehicle-to-load lets the traction battery power things outside the car. The Australian Government defines it as using an EV to power appliances or charge other EVs, through standard AC outlets built into the vehicle or, on some models, through the charging port with a special adapter. Examples it gives include power tools at a work or camp site and backup power for selected appliances.

Not every EV supports it. The same source advises checking your vehicle and charging equipment for compatibility, and consulting the manufacturer's documents, because using vehicle-to-everything features without confirmation may affect warranty or servicing support. Spec sheets state the maximum output, which varies by model. Check whether the socket is inside the car, outside, or adapter-only, and whether output is available while the car is locked.

V2L is one of three forms of vehicle-to-everything. The others, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid, send electricity back into a building or the grid and, per the Australian Government, require a compatible bi-directional charging device and other equipment.